android Developers

While it may still be a long time coming, a recent commit to the Android source code has just switched the default Android runtime from Dalvik to ART. Google has not yet commented on what it expects developers to do to adjust, but the this pretty much makes it clear the company's direction moving forward.

A new study shows that the turnaround time for Android development was quick when compared to the competition. About 40% of Android Developers say they finish apps in about a month, a slight lead over other platforms. Though Android is diverse, Developers also say the benefits outweigh the work it takes to scale across devices.

One of the new tenets for Android apps is design. Not only for aesthetics, design also helps with an apps usage. Matias Duarte and his team have done a great job in redesigning Google apps, and implementing design standards moving forward. A unified approach to design leads to easier utility, and a better enjoyment of apps.

Android 4.4 may be coming to Developers with some curious strings attached. According to a few reports, Android is free to use, but Chrome now requires licensing. The software ships without Chrome for those who haven’t yet licensed it from Google, leaving them to find their own browser, or create one from near scratch.

Google has rolled out a few changes for Android Developers today, and they could end up making the experience much better for everyone. By offering more cloud solutions for Developers, which allows them to focus more on designing and building great apps, Google takes a lot of the laborious tasks off their hands. Increased language support for Android apps also helps Developers reach a broader audience.

LG is making it much easier for Developers to get their hands on reference hardware. Starting today, LG is allowing those who are interested to get their hands on a loaner device. The sign-up page is currently a sparse “create an account” destination, but the reach is promising.

The annual Big Android BBQ might be over, but for the CyanogenMod team, particularly the newly formed Cyanogen Inc., the work has just truly begun. Wrapping up the highlights of the event in its blog, the team revealed the big plans that it has for the overall direction of the most popular Android custom ROM.

Google tries its best to provide sensible default applications that cater to a generic populace but, as always, there will always be other apps that offer more or better features. In Android 4.4 KitKat, Google will be changing the rules a bit for third-party SMS apps that will, hopefully, make things easier for both developers and users.

Mobile gaming is serious business and things are probably about to get even more serious as we move towards games season. It's no coincidence then that Google has now release three new features on their Google Play Games platform that will give game developers additional tools to help improve their masterpieces.